Dvd Hdd Recorders

Leaping the digital TV divide

If you own a digital TV that is compatible with digital terrestrial broadcasting (地デジ ( chideji ), or DTV) (most newer models are), then you're set — so long as you have a UHF antenna. If you live in an apartment building, the landlord or building owner will need to install a UHF antenna. In some locations with great reception you may be able to use an indoor UHF antenna instead. The only case in which an antenna isn't required is if you have cable, although you will need to confirm that your cable provider is providing digital terrestrial service.

If you do not own a digital TV, you can purchase a digital tuner ( dejitaru chūnā) that is digital terrestrial-compatible (again, look for chideji). You will also need a UHF antenna installed at your home or building for this to work. And fortunately, albeit confusingly, there are a wide variety of options when choosing a tuner.

The cheapest option is just a basic digital tuner — you'll want to ensure it is DTV-compatible by checking the specifications, although most are. Many of these (though not all) also include compatibility with BS and/or CS broadcasting and will show symbols for each if they are. If you want a tuner to work for both your computer and television, look for one that says " terebi ya pasokon "(television and personal computer).

Most tuners have an option for subtitles (closed captions) — look for 字幕 ( jimaku ). However, nearly all models with this option (from as far as we could see) only display Japanese captions. We found a few online that can be programmed to use a second language, and our local electronics store carries one brand with this function, but availability of this option will depend on your location and the store you visit. Some stores, especially in areas with a larger foreign population, may carry more of a selection. Ask about or look for 二言語 ( nigengo ) or 英字 ( eiji ). Also keep in mind that subtitles are not available for all broadcasts.

Similarly, not many tuners appear to offer an option for bilingual audio broadcasts. Checking the manufacturer's website for specifications seems to be the best way to find out if a tuner has this option or not. You could also ask at an electronics store. Either way, check for マルチ音声 ( maruchi onsei, meaning "multi-voice").

Prices for a basic tuner vary anywhere between ¥3,000 and ¥30,000 and potentially more, depending on extra features; the most basic tuners typically cost less than ¥10,000.

[SOLD OUT] Panasonic DVD Recorder 250GB HDD Twin HD Tuner PVR ...

Model DMRXW380. Price is $598 at JB Hi-Fi online. Delivery ranges from $10 for Sydney, Melbourne is $20, Perth $40 etc

Seems like a reasonable price for a brand name Twin HD PVR with DVD recording function. As a PVR, it is probably not as versatile as the latest Topfield or Beyonwiz PVR's but it has the DVD recorder which will be handy for some people who can't be bothered transferring files to the PC, transcoding, then burning to disc (as I do with my Topfield).

It has AV-in recording so you can record from external sources such as Foxtel or your old VCR, so you can convert those VHS tapes to DVD or save them on the HDD. So a pretty handy machine.

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